The narrator, Maddie, recounts her life and her complicated relationship with Selma, a 19-year older woman who becomes her best friend and boss. Maddie starts working at Selma's gym to support her family after her dad loses his job and becomes paranoid. Selma's son, Asher, joins the story, and Maddie develops a crush on him. Asher and Maddie start dating in secret, as Selma is overbearing and controlling. When Selma discovers their relationship, she insists on planning their wedding, which turns into a disaster. Maddie eventually calls off the wedding due to Selma's constant interference and insults. Asher chooses to stay with his mother, and Maddie walks away, realizing that she deserves better. In the end, Maddie reflects on the experience, grateful for the lessons learned and the growth that came from standing up for herself.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The narrator, Maddie, met Selma two years ago when she started working at a part-time job.
2. Selma is 19 years older than Maddie and is her best friend.
3. Maddie's dad lost his job due to an accident and became paranoid.
4. Maddie's mom started working all the time to support the family.
5. Maddie had to get a part-time job to help with the bills.
6. Maddie met Asher, Selma's son, at the gym where she worked.
7. Asher helped Maddie when she was being followed by strange boys.
8. Maddie and Asher started dating in secret because Selma didn't approve.
9. Selma found out about Maddie and Asher's relationship and was upset.
10. Selma planned a wedding for Maddie and Asher without their input.
11. Maddie's parents offered to host the wedding, but Selma rejected the idea.
12. Maddie called off the wedding due to Selma's behavior.
13. Maddie quit her job and ended her relationship with Asher.
14. Maddie's decision to walk away from Asher and Selma was the best decision she ever made.